The Horse Race 1824

Théodore Géricault created this small oil on canvas, The Horse Race, sometime in the early 19th century. Here, Géricault applies the traditional medium of oil paint to explore an entirely modern phenomenon: the spectacle of horse racing. Looking closely, you see the artist has deployed the material to create a sense of breathless speed. He applies the pigment rapidly, in short dashes that follow the forms of the horses and their riders, conveying the texture of their bodies and clothing. Notice how the paint is thinnest in the background, and becomes more built up as we approach the foreground. The painting offers insight into the emerging culture of leisure and spectacle in the 19th century, where horse racing became a popular pastime for the upper classes. It is fascinating to consider how Géricault's expert handling of his materials contributes to the sense of drama and excitement, turning what could be a simple depiction of a race into a powerful statement about modernity.